SYRACUSE, NY (WSYR-TV) - A special mass was held on Sunday at Our Lady of Pompei in memory of Father Joseph Champlin who died five years ago.
Champlin founded the Guardian Angel Society, which raises money and then offers kids tuition assistance to attend one of three local catholic schools.
The church said the community's continued support has kept the program on track in Champlin’s absence.
"They want to see the organization continue, want to see his legacy continue and we’re doing that today. His spirit is still with us and it’s through the kids and all of our success stories that are coming out of graduation and going to college,” said Kathy Fedrizzi with the Guardian Angel Society.
Last year the society expanded its services to include mentoring and tutoring of high school students.
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